How to Do a Broken Car Key Repair
You're on your way to work in hurry, and you jam your car keys into the ignition. You try to turn it, and it snaps off in the lock!
There are a few options you can try to fix it before calling a locksmith. Here are a few quick solutions: 1. Super Glue.
1. Call a Locksmith
A damaged key in the lock is one of the most unpleasant things a vehicle owner can experience. This is especially frustrating when the driver is in a rush to get somewhere, or to drop off a kid. In this case it is crucial to act swiftly and try to get the key out of the way.
It is recommended to call an experienced locksmith for this task as they will have the correct tools to take out the broken key without harm the lock. Many people will look for something small and stiff like paperclips or toothpicks. But this isn't the best option since they are too thick to fit in the lock.
The best solution is to search for an tweezers set, because they are thin and can easily reach the key hole inside the lock. They should also be rigid enough to grasp the broken part of the key and pull it out. If you don't have tweezers it might be worth searching for key extractors which are typically available in auto parts stores. These are flat, narrow and have small hooks. They can be inserted in the keyhole and grab the broken part of the key.
Another possible solution is to locate an magnetic key hook that will stick to the metal inside the lock and pull it out. This is not always a good idea, as it can sometimes be caught in the lock and cause further damage to it. In this situation, it's best to call a professional locksmith.
Some people attempt to stick the two pieces of their snapped car key together with superglue, as it will help them remove it from the lock. However, this can be very risky as the bits of metal could stick to one another and fall apart later. It is also essential not to turn the key since this could cause further damage to the lock or the ignition cylinder. It is best to contact a professional locksmith who will be ready to take out the broken key and create an immediate replacement.
2. Drill into a hole
Even with a spare key you might not be able to access your vehicle if the key breaks inside the lock. In these cases drilling the lock is the best choice.
First, you will want to make sure that the key hole is set up to accept a standard tumbler car key. If it's not then you won't have the ability to remove the pins and cause damage to the door or internal lock mechanism.
It is important to note that you'll drill through the outer layer of plastic as well as an inner layer of metal. A small drill bit is sufficient to cut through these layers, but you need to be sure not to go any deeper than this. In the event of drilling too deep, it could cause damage to the wiring harness, or cause the drill to snag.
It is also recommended to wear a mask and protective equipment when working with drilling. key fob repair near me will stop dust and dirt from getting into your lung.
Finally, it is recommended to have a pair of pliers and tweezers available in case the broken piece of the key is sticking out of the lock. If there is enough of the key sticking out to be able to grasp with tweezers or pliers, this could be sufficient to get it out of the lock. If there isn't, however, you will require a tool such as this one to insert the tool inside the lock, and then turn it toward the key to grasp it and pull it out of the hole.
3. Drill a nail
If you break your car key in half, it could cause you to be trapped. There are several ways to fix the issue without the expense of a locksmith. The first step is to use the screw or nail. You can find these at home or in the hardware store. It is best to choose a nail as thin and long as you can. This way you can fit it into the hole, and then use epoxy to connect the two pieces together. It is also important to ensure that the back of the nail is level. This will help it to fit into the cut slot of the key. This will stop it from moving and potentially breaking again in the future.
4. Super Glue
Many auto owners use DIY techniques, such as using super glue to repair a damaged or broken key. This is a risky practice. You could end up damaging the lock and have to shell out more money for finding a replacement at the dealer or a locksmith.
First, you need to take a look at the broken keys and make sure they are in terms of size. This is vital to ensure that the pieces will be properly aligned and the key will fit into the lock after they are bonded together. Then, use the fine-grit sandpaper or a metal file to smooth the edges on the broken pieces of the key. This will help make the glue bond stronger and decrease the chance of a key falling loose in the future.
After finishing the edges after polishing, apply the smallest amount (about a pea-sized amount) of super glue on the other side. Only apply a small amount of super glue, as too much could make the key too heavy. It will then be difficult to fit into the lock. Then, carefully align the two broken pieces of the key and press them together. After a few moments, the glue will begin to set and bind to the key pieces.
A bobby-pin or paperclip can also be used as a tool to extract a broken key from a lock. They can be cut like a pick and then inserted into the lock. This technique is particularly useful when the damage is located in or near the keyway or ignition hole.
A car key that has been damaged with electronic components will need a new key from the locksmith or dealer. This is because the key will have to be programmed with a new code and the key chip must be replaced. If only the shell or metal part of the key is damaged and needs to be replaced, you'll need to get a new cut. You don't have to reprogramme or replace the electronics.